The Order of Events for a Wedding Processional
Your wedding processional is one of the most cherished and anticipated moments of your big day. It’s when you make your grand entrance, surrounded by family and friends. The order of events for a wedding processional is an age-old tradition but don’t be afraid to mix it up a bit to make it uniquely yours.
Seating of the Guests
The processional begins with the arrival of your guests. Ushers or attendants help guide them to their seats. Ensure there’s comfortable seating and clear signage to make this part of the process smooth and welcoming. Most couples don’t stick to the traditional sit on the side of the couple you know. There are many ideas for signs to post to ensure everyone knows it’s open seating.
Seating of Family
Traditionally, the processional starts with the seating of close family members. Here’s the typical order:
- Grandparents of the bride
- Grandparents of the groom
- Mother of one partner escorted to their seat
- Mother of the other partner escorted to their seat (unless they are also escorting the partner down the aisle)
In modern ceremonies, couples often include additional family members or adapt the order to suit their preferences.
Entrance of the Officiant
The officiant enters next and takes their place at the altar. This signals the official beginning of the ceremony.
Entrance of the Wedding Party
Attendants: They may enter individually or as couples, walking side by side.
Maid of honor and best man: They may follow the attendants, or they can enter separately.
Flower girl(s) and ring bearer(s): These adorable members of the wedding party add charm and sweetness to the processional. Trending is Flower Grandmas and Ring Grandpas.
Entrance of the Bride(s)
This is the pivotal moment of the processional. The bride makes her grand entrance, escorted by her father, both parents, a family member, or even solo if she prefers. The choice is entirely personal. If you have step-parents, you can share this honor. I’ve seen the father escort the bride down the aisle and halfway down, they were joined by her step-father.
Alternative Entrances
Couples are increasingly opting for creative and unique entrances. Some ideas include having both partners walk down the aisle together, arriving with children from previous marriages, or entering to a special song that holds meaning for them.
Music
Music plays a vital role in setting the tone. Consider classic choices like Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus” or Pachelbel’s “Canon in D,” or personalize your processional with songs that hold sentimental value to you as a couple.
Flow and Timing
The flow and timing of the processional can vary based on the number of attendants, the size of the venue, and personal preferences. Rehearse the processional to ensure smooth transitions and a well-coordinated entrance. Be sure everyone knows if they are going to be escorted. We had to go grab grandma from her seat just before the wedding!
If you have a DJ for this part of the wedding, they can help in arranging the timing of the processional.
Seating of Late Arrivals
If there are late-arriving guests, ushers or attendants can discreetly guide them to available seats during the processional.
Recessional
This is where you can have a bit more fun. Some couples run down the aisle. Some dance. You just got married! The hard part is over. It’s time to celebrate!
Remember, your wedding processional is a reflection of your love story and unique style. While tradition offers guidance, feel free to adapt and personalize the order of events to create a processional that feels meaningful and memorable to you and your partner. It’s your moment to shine and celebrate the journey that brought you together.
Remember, less is more
~ Melissa
